A Relaxing Day in Sunchang, Jeonbuk
Walking, reading, and resting,
I am taking a break in Sunchang, Jeonbuk.
Course Name
Jeonbuk Cheonri Trail - Gangcheonsan Trail
Main Points
Byeongpoong Waterfall - Gangcheonsa - Cloud Bridge - Gujanggun Waterfall
Distance/Time
7km / 2.5 hours
Starting/Ending Point
Gangcheonsan National Park Management Office *Return Point
This year, as a member of the Jeonbuk Special Self-Governing Province Blog Reporter Group, I made a commitment to visit a different area each month, starting with the least populated regions among the 14 cities and counties in Jeonbuk. Now, I am in the fifth month of this journey. This time, I am reporting from Sunchang County, the fifth least populated city in Jeonbuk.
Back in the winter of 2019, during a solo backpacking trip, I had a tough experience while hastily eating near the traditional gochujang village in Sunchang, which left me feeling unwell for several days.
At that time, I was also relying solely on public transportation. After my meal, I sat at the bus stop, took off my socks, and pressed on my sore spots. I thought it was a struggle to be away from home, but looking back now, it has become an unforgettable memory.
Seven years have passed since I last visited Gangcheonsan in Sunchang during that backpacking trip. I expected to remember some of the scenery, but I was mistaken.
Returning to Gangcheonsan after many years felt like a first visit. The difference in seasons was striking. Unlike before, the lush greenery now obscured the branches and trunks.
I recall there being an entrance fee seven years ago, but upon my return, I was surprised to see a notice stating that the fee for one adult is now 5,000 won. It seems the cost of living has risen, increasing the entrance fee as well. However, the ticket office staff kindly handed me a 2,000 won local gift certificate usable in Sunchang along with my ticket.
The famous Byeongpoong Waterfall of Gangcheonsan is visible. At this time of year, there’s no room for boredom. I open my eyes to the green-covered forest and listen to the sounds of unknown birds. The cascading sound of the waterfall harmonizes beautifully with the birdsong.
I walked diligently to the next checkpoint, Gangcheonsa. Since May 24th is Buddha's Birthday, lanterns are already being prepared.
Gangcheonsa is said to have been founded in 887, making it a thousand-year-old temple. While the five-story stone pagoda and the famous Samindae are well-known, Gangcheonsa also boasts the oldest quince tree in the country, standing strong.
With an age of over 300 years and a height of about 20 meters, it blooms pale pink flowers every May, but I was disappointed not to see them during my visit.
Without needing to look closely at photos, I noticed that no one was holding a cellphone. Here, everyone simply seeks rest in their own way—sitting, lying down, walking alone or with someone else. Ultimately, the moment that strengthens the belief that it is the environment and structural design that can change human behavior rather than persuasion.
Despite my slower pace than usual, I eventually reached the turnaround point. Passing through the forest, I spotted two streams not far away. They were the Gujanggun Waterfalls.
As always, I looked for a spot to set up my camping chair. Until now, I had only listened to the sounds of birds and the rustling of leaves in the wind while resting in my chair, but today, I could hear the gentle sound of water.
The book I brought this time is On Favor by former judge Moon Hyung-bae. I looked up 'favor' in the Naver Korean dictionary, which defines it as 'a kind heart' or 'a mind that thinks well of others.' I had only considered the act of giving as favor, but perhaps recognizing the giver's intention can also be seen as a form of favor.
Just as I was about to relax and head back, I decided to climb up to Sujwagul. From there, looking at Gujanggun Waterfall, it seemed as though a simple village had formed in the valley.
“In May, the sky whistles.” This lyric from the song We Who Seized Green by the band Jannabi comes to mind when I see such scenery. It's a song that fits perfectly with the season of lush greenery, so I highly recommend listening to it.
With plenty of time left before the bus back to Sunchang, I headed to the Cloud Bridge, known as a highlight of Gangcheonsan. The hiking trail leading up to the bridge is not difficult, but stepping onto the swaying bridge filled me with fear. Nevertheless, I felt it was not enough to cross just once, so I crossed it again.
On the way back to the entrance of Gangcheonsan, there is a short Metasequoia path. While the nearby Damyang Metasequoia path is well-known, the Sunchang Metasequoia path along the way to Gangcheonsan is also beautiful.
As you travel along the long Metasequoia path, enjoy the view from the car window, but take your time walking the short Metasequoia path at Gangcheonsan.
As the years go by, summer heat becomes more unbearable. In the city, people turn on the air conditioning without hesitation. Due to the characteristics of modern buildings, which are poorly insulated, it is unavoidable to run the air conditioning.
However, outside of work hours, one can cool off in the refreshing and clean natural breeze. Gangcheonsan in Sunchang has well-formed valleys and lush leaves providing shade for visitors. I feel grateful for the unconditional benefits that nature offers.
Source :https://blog.naver.com/jbgokr/224288878709
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